Veterinary Assistant

Petersen Pet Hospital • Hiawatha, IA

7d • Onsite

About The Position

Petersen Pet Hospital is hiring a full-time Veterinary Assistant to work alongside experienced veterinarians, skilled technicians, and support staff to provide high-quality animal care and customer service. The role assists with examinations, treatments, surgeries, animal handling, basic laboratory work, medication administration under veterinary supervision, animal care, recordkeeping, client communication, and clinic upkeep.

The position is based at Petersen Pet Hospital in Hiawatha, Iowa, a progressive, AAHA-accredited, Fear Free small-animal practice with eight doctors. The hospital describes its approach as kind, quality-focused, and caring, with an emphasis on making visits low-stress for patients and their owners. The schedule is 36–40 hours per week and includes every other Saturday. Pay starts at $14 per hour.

Requirements

• Enthusiasm and reliability.
• Previous experience working with animals in a veterinary setting is preferred.
• Technical know-how in disinfection, administering medication, and using diagnostic equipment is preferred.
• Physical ability to handle animals safely and compassionately is preferred.

Nice To Haves

• Previous experience working with animals in a veterinary setting.
• Technical know-how in disinfection, administering medication, and using diagnostic equipment.
• Physical ability to handle animals safely and compassionately.

Responsibilities

• Assist veterinarians and veterinary technicians during examinations, treatments, and surgeries.
• Handle and restrain animals safely and compassionately.
• Prepare examination rooms and surgical areas by cleaning and sterilizing equipment and surfaces.
• Perform basic laboratory tests, including collecting blood, urine, and stool samples.
• Administer medications and vaccinations under the supervision of a veterinarian.
• Feed, bathe, and exercise animals as needed.
• Maintain accurate medical records.
• Communicate with pet owners about their pets’ care, treatment plans, and follow-up visits.
• Clean and maintain the clinic, stock supplies, and help ensure a safe and sanitary environment.

Benefits

• Medical insurance.
• Dental insurance.
• Vision insurance.
• Retirement plan / 401(k) with a generous company contribution.
• Employee pet discount.
• Paid holidays.
• Paid time off (PTO).

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: No Education Listed